The new Mayor of Gravesham has been announced.

The final decision was made at the recent annual meeting of the full council which took place on the evening of Tuesday, May 8.

Cllr Hurley said he is now eagerly looking forward to the year ahead as the civic leader of the borough, having already been the deputy mayor over the past year.

He went on: “It is a great honour and privilege to be representing Her Majesty the Queen in the borough of Gravesham. I hope to work successfully on behalf of all Gravesham’s residents and aim to promote Gravesham and its prosperity and attractions, whenever possible.”

Charity work is a major responsibility for any mayor, and Cllr Hurley will be working to back The House of Mercy, which provides for many in Gravesham; Demelza Hospice Care For Children, which operates across Kent, including Gravesham, South-East London, and Sussex; and Alzheimer’s And Dementia Support Services, based in Northfleet.

he has lived in the borough for 40 years while working in printing, publishing and newspaper industries, plus serving in the British Army, both here and abroad.

He was especially proud as his grandchildren – 11-year-old Abigail and nine-year-old Imogen - were at the mayor-making ceremony, together with his daughter, Sarah-Louise, and son-in-law, Mark.

Besides spending time with his grandchildren, Cllr Hurley said he closely follows the fortunes of Ebbsfleet United, and has his fingers crossed for their promotion hopes.

During the ceremony that placed him in the important civic position, he paid tribute to his predecessor, Cllr Harold Craske, for his tireless work and promised to continue to promote the borough in the same way.

He went on say: “There’s no doubt this is going to be a busy year but I’m looking forward to all the events and engagements. It will be wonderful to raise as much money for my chosen charities too.”

Cllr Hurley’s escort for the year will vary, but will be one of his fellow female councillors. The Deputy Mayor is Cllr Lesley Boycott.

If you value what this story gives you, please consider supporting the Gravesend Reporter. Click the link in the yellow box below for details.

This newspaper has been a central part of community life for many years, through good times and bad, serving as your advocate and trusted source of local information. Our industry is facing testing times, which is why I’m asking for your support. Every single contribution will help us continue to produce award-winning local journalism that makes a measurable difference to our community.